Kaylah Walton
Leonardo DiCaprio is not only one of the leading figures in Hollywood, but he is also a passionate advocate for environmental issues. Over the years, he has leveraged his fame to bring attention to climate change and advocate for essential policy reforms. This commitment has led to the establishment of the Leonardo DiCaprio Foundation, which supports global conservation initiatives, and he has often partnered with organizations such as the United Nations to promote his environmental message.
DiCaprio merges his acting career with activism, asserting that climate change is “the most pressing threat to humanity.” Recently, he has entered the political spotlight during the 2024 election by endorsing Vice President Kamala Harris, encouraging voters to support her environmental initiatives.
In a video shared on Instagram, DiCaprio proclaimed, “Climate change is destroying our planet and harming our economy. We must take significant steps to safeguard our economy, our environment, and our lives. That’s why I’m supporting Kamala Harris.” He also highlighted recent hurricanes, Helene and Milton, calling them “unnatural disasters driven by climate change.”
He commended Harris for her ambitious goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, her advocacy for green jobs, and her pivotal role in the Inflation Reduction Act, which is designed to lower emissions and foster sustainable growth. As Vice President, Harris cast the tie-breaking vote in favor of this important legislation, displaying her dedication to addressing climate change.
DiCaprio criticizes Trump’s anti-environment policies
During his video, DiCaprio specifically criticized former President Donald Trump, denouncing his withdrawal from the Paris Climate Agreement and the reversal of “vital environmental protections.” He charged Trump with continuing to “ignore the facts” and “deny the science” regarding climate change.
This is not the first time DiCaprio has spoken out against Trump’s environment-related policies. Following Trump’s election in 2016, DiCaprio met with him to discuss the economic benefits of environmental conservation, although this meeting did not lead to any substantial policy changes.
Harris has also secured support from other notable figures such as Taylor Swift, Meryl Streep, and George Clooney. She recently hosted a rally in Atlanta alongside former President Barack Obama and Bruce Springsteen, and appeared with Beyoncé in Houston, solidifying her status as a favored candidate among celebrity activists.
On the other hand, Trump is backed by prominent supporters like Elon Musk, Kid Rock, and Dennis Quaid. As Election Day approaches, DiCaprio’s endorsement highlights the contrasting views of the candidates, particularly regarding climate action. For DiCaprio, Harris embodies the leadership required to “defend our planet and foster a sustainable future.”
